The British Dental Health Foundation has welcomed news that MPs have backed a tax on sugary drinks in England and calls for the government to take note.

The Commons' Health Select Committee has called for an introduction of a sugar tax as part of what they describe as a 'bold and urgent' set of measures to tackle child health issues.

The committee said there was 'compelling evidence' the tax would reduce the consumption of sugary drinks and help to protect generations of children from health problems such as tooth decay and obesity.

Dr Nigel Carter OBE, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, responded to the report: 'What we are seeing is a paradigm shift, with this report real pressure will be put on ministers who have so far resisted a tax, they cannot now ignore the fact that it will have a real and hugely positive effect on the nation's health.

'We reiterate our long held stance that the introduction of the tax is a necessity, currently child tooth extractions due to sugar-related tooth decay are the single biggest reason for children being admitted to hospital for general anaesthetics. This cannot continue. There is a definite need for quick and decisive action and minsters have to pay attention.

'The additional proposal to crackdown on the marketing and advertising of sugary drinks is also great news.'

The Commons' Health Select Committee Chair, Dr Sarah Wollaston, said: 'We believe that if the government fails to act, the problem will become far worse.

'A full package of measures is required and should be implemented as soon as possible.'